The 7 Best Professional Camcorders

Whether you're a filmmaker, news reporter, or wedding videographer, having a professional camcorder at your disposal can dramatically improve the quality of your work. Compared to lesser models, these feature better lenses, bigger sensors, and more controls to let you hone an image to your satisfaction.
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Whether you're a filmmaker, news reporter, or wedding videographer, having a professional camcorder at your disposal can dramatically improve the quality of your work. Compared to lesser models, these feature better lenses, bigger sensors, and more controls to let you hone an image to your satisfaction.
When users buy our independently chosen editorial
selections,
we may earn commissions to
help fund the Wiki.
Skip to the best professional camcorder on Amazon.

7. Canon XA11

REVIEW

DETAILS

SPECS

The 20x zoom lens on the Canon XA11 only opens up to about a 27mm equivalent at its widest, so it might not make for the best angles when shooting in tight quarters. However, its other features make it a formidable option in almost any other setting.

6. Canon XC15

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DETAILS

SPECS

If you're investing in a video camera after spending time shooting with a DSLR, the shape and layout of the Canon XC15 will immediately feel familiar to you. It boasts a nice set of manual controls built into its body for easy access.

5. JVC GY-HM620U ProHD

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DETAILS

SPECS

The JVC GY-HM620U ProHD is a smart choice for the news reporter on the go, whether you're chronicling a local parade or headed into a disaster area. Its grab-and-go style handle and lightweight design allow you to carry it around with ease.

4. Panasonic HC-X1 4K Ultra HD

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If you like shooting at high speeds, but you don't want to sacrifice 4K resolution, the Panasonic HC-X1 4K Ultra HD will let you record UHD footage at up to 60 fps. Zoomed all the way in at 480 mm, its lens aperture is only f/4.5, giving you great shallow depth of field.

3. Sony PXW-FS5 Mk II

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If you want a camera with a small footprint, but that's also outfitted with enough external controls that you can set up your shots without a lot of menu diving, then the Sony PXW-FS5 Mk II is a great choice. It can provide 4K RAW output at up to 120 fps.

2. Canon XA15

REVIEW

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SPECS

The Canon XA15 has just about everything you need to comprehensively cover an event or shoot a film all rolled up into one compact package. Its zoom lens boasts a 20x optical range, so you can compose your shots from a distance with significant clarity.

1. Sony PXW-FS7M2 XDCAM

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SPECS

The Super 35mm sensor working inside the Sony PXW-FS7M2 XDCAM provides you with a dynamic range and depth of field that is extremely reminiscent of celluloid film, making this a great choice for filmmakers or anyone who wants their event coverage to be more cinematic.

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Daniel Imperiale holds a bachelor’s degree in writing, and proudly fled his graduate program in poetry to pursue a quiet life at a remote Alaskan fishery. After returning to the contiguous states, he took up a position as an editor and photographer of the prestigious geek culture magazine “Unwinnable” before turning his attention to the field of health and wellness. In recent years, he has worked extensively in film and music production, making him something of a know-it-all when it comes to camera equipment, musical instruments, recording devices, and other audio-visual hardware. Daniel’s recent obsessions include horology (making him a pro when it comes to all things timekeeping) and Uranium mining and enrichment (which hasn’t proven useful just yet).

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